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(Jap.; Chin., pa hsiang).

In east Asian Buddhism.this term refers to the ‘eight acts’ of the Buddha through which he revealed the teachings and saved other beings. Although lists vary from source to source, the following is representative: (1) descent from the Tuṣita heaven; (2) entry into the womb; (3) gestation; (4) birth; (5) renunciation of the householder life; (6) enlightenment (bodhi); (7) setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion; (8) final nirvāṇa. Other lists omit gestation and substitute the Buddha's suppression of Māra after the renunciation.